Construction Laborer how-to
How to Flag Traffic in a Work Zone
Flaggers protect workers and drivers. Follow your state DOT’s flagging rules and the MUTCD.
Flaggers protect workers and drivers. Follow your state DOT’s flagging rules and the MUTCD. In short: wear; stand; hold, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Wear high-visibility apparel and confirm advance warning signs are in place.
Stand on the shoulder next to the lane you control, visible to traffic and never in the lane.
Hold the stop/slow paddle on a rigid staff, with the STOP side facing traffic to stop it.
To stop traffic, show STOP and raise your free arm with palm facing traffic.
To release traffic, turn the paddle to SLOW and motion with your free arm.
Coordinate with the flagger at the other end by radio.
Always keep an escape route planned in case a vehicle doesn’t stop.
Safety reminders for construction laborers
- Never enter a trench five feet or deeper without a protective system approved by a competent person
- Use fall protection at heights of six feet or more on construction sites
- Wear high-visibility apparel near traffic and moving equipment
- Control silica dust with water or vacuums and wear respiratory protection when required
Key terms
OSHA 10 · Competent person · Trench box · Shoring · Rebar · Formwork: see the full construction laborer glossary.